Whitetail Surgeonfish
NameWhitetail Surgeonfish
Scientific NameAcanthurus nigricauda
Common NamesWhitetail Surgeonfish, Blackstreak Surgeonfish, Black-lined Surgeonfish
FamilyAcanthuridae
OriginIndo-Pacific, East Africa, Red Sea, Hawaii, Japan, Australia
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)125
Max Size (Inches)15
Water TypeSaltwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-82
pH Range8.1-8.4
Compatible SpeciesLarge Angelfish, Butterflyfish, Clownfish, Wrasses, Damselfish (non-aggressive), Puffers, Triggerfish (non-aggressive species)
Description
The Whitetail Surgeonfish is a large and active marine fish, recognized by its distinctive white or pale blue caudal fin and a black streak extending from the eye. Primarily an herbivore, it constantly grazes on algae, making it beneficial for reef tanks. While generally peaceful with dissimilar species, it can be territorial towards other tangs and surgeonfish.
